Join Me at the 2010 National Gift Basket Professional Convention!

I've been asked to lead a seminar entitled "Leaving an Intentional Legacy" at the 2010 National Gift Basket Professional Convention, July 23-25, 2010 in Canton, Ohio. The theme this year is "Building Your Dreams."

Not only will you learn how to create gift baskets, but top-notch speakers will help you build your business! Tom and Pamela Newell, owners and instructors at The Gift Basket School, are organizing the convention and promise a fun, affordable, and educational time for newbies and veterans alike.

Included in this year's convention are seminars, a trade show (where I'll be selling and autographing my books), unlimited networking, a challenge you won't want to miss, and much more! Early bird registration is going on now.

Hope to see you there!

Organize Your Car for the Winter

If you live in a part of the country where winter happens, it's time (maybe overdue for some of you!) to organize your car for winter - for weather and other emergencies. Even if you don't have winter weather, many of these items are good to keep for unexpected situations.

1. Start by removing outdated items you've used for an emergency kit - outdated food, summer items, etc.

2. If you don't have one already, grab a plastic bin, crate, or bag to hold your emergency items.

3. Stock it with an extra change of clothes for each of your family members. You may want to put in an extra pair of shoes or boots for inclement weather. Include extra mittens, hats, blankets, small pillows and such in case you're stranded for a while.

4. If you don't have a 4-wheel drive car, you may want to keep some kitty litter or a small rug to put under your tire should you get stuck.

5. Include some snacks and drinks to stave off crabbiness if you're out past mealtime. Use juice boxes rather than plastic drink bottles to avoid toxins. Be sure to swap out or replenish these frequently.

6. If you have children, choose some toys or activity items to entertain them while riding. If they have something to occupy themselves, they are less likely to torment each other or you!

7. Check to see if your flashlight has working batteries. Restock your first aid kit.

8. Make sure to have flares and jumper cables.

9. Keep some extra diapers (if applicable), wipes, paper towels, and hand sanitizer handy, too.

10. I like to keep a car charger for my cell phone in my car in case my battery is low.

By taking some time to plan for emergencies, you and your family may avoid unpleasant situations, whether emergencies or not.

What do you keep in your car for emergencies and other unexpected situations?

More on cars:
Organize an Emergency Kit for Your Car
Getting Organized for School - Cleaning out the Car
Decluttering Your Car